By Aqeel Yousafzai
Ankara/Tel Aviv: Recent international media reports have raised questions regarding Turkey’s trade relations with Israel, despite Ankara’s claims of severing ties in response to Israeli military actions in Gaza.
According to reports, maritime trade between Turkey and Israel has continued during the 15-month-long Gaza conflict, with shipping activity witnessing a noticeable rise. Sources indicate that between May 3 and December 7, 2024, Turkish cargo ships transported goods, including oil, petrochemicals, fruits, and essential materials, to Israeli ports such as Haifa and Ashdod via the Mediterranean Sea.
Investigations reveal that over this period, 108 ships carrying 340 cargo containers made the journey from Turkey to Israel. Among them, 48 cargo shipments specifically transported oil and petrochemical products, delivered by 25 vessels. Additionally, 19 shipments of essential supplies were dispatched using 11 ships.
Despite Turkey’s official stance of suspending trade with Israel, reports suggest that logistical support has remained active, raising concerns about the transparency of its policies.
Media outlets further allege that Turkey’s actions reflect broader regional complexities, as Ankara has previously been accused of aligning with Western agendas in neighboring conflicts.
These revelations have reignited debates over Turkey’s role in the region, prompting calls for clarity and accountability regarding its trade practices amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.